Architects in Sheffield & Chesterfield

Now more than ever, it’s important for us to do what we can to ensure our construction projects are environmentally-aware and cause as little damage to the planet as possible. Many architects will now talk you through a range of green building options when you start designing plans for a new build, so you can make the choices right for your lifestyle.

Here are just some of the options we talk through with our clients at Brightman Clarke Architects.

Reduce, reuse, recycle!There are plenty of sites around the country where you can reclaim and reuse a variety of building materials as opposed to buying new products that aren’t environmentally friendly. Mainly people will choose to reuse old wood floors, windows and doors, especially if it adds to the unique character of your build. For a home that’s truly one of a kind, why not find reclaimed tiles, beams, recycled glass and more?

Modern insulationAny green building project will ensure that your home is as insulated as possible to prevent the unnecessary loss of heat in your home. By minimising the loss of heat through walls, roofs and windows, you can use far less energy and save yourself a considerable amount of money.

Sustainable building materialsYou architect can take you through the use of green building materials that will reduce the impact your build has on the environment. Every part of your home can be made with environmentally friendly materials, including roofing, walls, flooring and even counters.

Installing solar panelsSolar energy is both clean and renewable, allowing you to harness the power of the sun rather than relying on fossil fuels. They are an immediate investment, but they will save you a significant amount of money over the years and a great way to live a greener life. We regularly work with clients to discuss how the location and orientation of their buildings will have an impact on the amount of solar energy you can harvest.

Solar energy can dramatically decrease your energy consumption, and any excess energy can go to your utility company, helping you to decrease the general reliance on conventional energy sources. If you plan to use solar panels in your new build, there are a wide range of tax breaks, incentives and government grants you can benefit from.

Energy Star windowsEnergy Star windows are incredibly energy efficient compared to other windows and are a relatively new innovation. The lower rating you use, the more efficient your windows are. Once again, they are an immediate investment, but the savings you make to your bills over the years will see you reaping significant savings.

It’s all about locationWhether you’re buying land to build on for the first time, or you’re looking at a plot that’s already been built on, location is important when it comes to designing and constructing a green house. Your house should be designed to be south facing, in order to get as much sunlight as possible, and ensuring you have good transport and amenities nearby will mean you don’t have to drive long distances in a car.

You should also think about if you’re building in a location prone to flooding or other environmentally sensitive areas, although this is applicable to any building project!

For more information about how the team at Brightman Clarke Architects will help you to construct an environmentally-friendly home, call us on 0114321 1869 or get in touch online.